New Books

Haven't read this one yet. Considered by many to be the definitive work on fencing and duelling up until the end of the 19th Century when it ends. More fully titled: A Complete Bibliography of Fencing & Duelling: As Practiced by All European Nations from the Middle Ages to the Present Day(1898ish).

Used Books

Older books on fencing and duelling can be of particular use in classical and historic fencing, especially if written before the advent of electronic scoring equipment. Alibris and Bookfinder are large American sites. Scimitars is a UK bookshop specialising in books to do with swords and swordplay. All three sites have a fab selection.

This book was originally written in the 1930's before fencing had made the switch to using electric scoring equipment. It is simply, but well, illustrated. Written in a remarkably efficient yet easy to understand style, suitable for the absolute beginner and experienced fencer/coach alike. This book takes you through all the most useful techniques, explains the basic terminology and even suggests some useful practice routines.

This book is about to be brought back into print by Lance Lobo of The Laureate Press. Expected early 2002.

A detailed account of duelling through the ages, numerous accounts of real duels as well as a fluid narrative that fills in the legal and environmental changes that contributed to the different styles of fighting and weapons used. A very enjoyable well put together book.

For more book reviews see J.Christoph Amberger's site, Swordhistory. The site itself is designed to provide information about his book listed above, but it also contains a number of interesting articles on the various aspects of swordplay ane EMA. It also has some nice links and a set of book reviews.